Conclusion
The Last Voyage


On May 22, 1633, Champlain once again took possession of Quebec.

Champlain re-established contact with his Indian allies, but he was no longer an influential leader: he was growing old. His days of exploration, cartography and travel writing - his glory days - were over. Yet Champlain had achieved the impossible. The "Father of New France" had persuaded one of Europe’s most powerful nations to build and support a promising new colony.

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons (1639-1649)
Photo: Huronia Historic Parks, Midland, Ontario
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In 1634, Champlain sent La Violette to found the Trois-Rivières settlement, instigating the first real influx of people to Canada.

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Mortar, 1636
Bronze
Made in France

Found near Parry Sound, Ontario, in 1870, this mortar was probably carried from Sainte-Marie-among-the-Hurons by fleeing French or Huron refugees. Huronia was destroyed by the League of the Iroquois between 1648 and 1652.
Collection of W. S. Beatty Photo: Steven Darby, Canadian Museum of Civilization

Champlain had become a Canadian. It was in Quebec that he chose to spend his last days. He died in 1635, on Christmas Day. "He had a very honourable burial, the funeral procession being formed of the People, the Soldiers, the Captains [the Indian chiefs], and the Churchmen," said Father Le Jeune.

Jesuit ring, 17th century
Copper
Made in France

Length: 1.5 cm
Found at the site of the second Quebec settlement
Ministère de la Culture et des Communications du Québec, Archaeological Collection
Photo: Steven Darby, Canadian Museum of Civilization
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Rosary Cross, 17th century
Brass
Made in France

Length: 3 cm
Found at the site of the second Quebec settlement Ministère de la Culture et des Communications du Québec, Archaeological Collection
Photo: Steven Darby, Canadian Museum of Civilization

Champlain bequeathed his property and his share in the Company of One Hundred Associates to Notre-Dame-de-la-Recouvrance chapel. He left his astrolabe to Father Lallemant and his clothing to his servant. It was Champlain’s hope and belief that the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) would continue the work he had begun.



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    Last Updated: September 1, 2009